The theme of this book I am studying is that writing is personal and your work will never please anyone (so stop trying.) As I dive further into the pages of this work I am feeling myself gain confidence as a writer. I’m worrying far less about what people think and I am embracing writing for my own pleasure.
There are obvious benefits for allowing others to critique your writing.
They can help a piece to be accurate in conveying our intended emotions and tension. Each story first created in our minds is never the one another reads. Everyone carries their lives when they read. Sometimes it is a struggle to step out of our own mind in order to convey a story the way we intend to.
Giving someone permission to comment on the accuracy of your work is helpful. It is a healthy exchange so long as you keep the perspective that you are not your story. Advice may critique our work, but it does not critique the writer.
So write what you are curious about–write what you love. Then let another in on the experience.
Practice: Get into a workshop
I’ve workshopped a few of my pieces in online critique groups and in live groups at my local SCBWI. It is helpful to do so with the right mindset. This year I want to jump back into more critique groups and workshops and not allow my ego to respond to negative or positive feedback.
In the past I have gained immense wisdom from published authors that I continue to carry with me every time I write.
Put your work out there too!
The Ameri Brit Mom
The Ameri Brit Mom 